Each spring, the Japanese eagerly anticipate hanami. Literally translated as “looking at flowers,” hanami celebrates the delicate pink flowers' fleeting beauty. People of all sects picnic under the blooming trees, enjoying Japanese drinks and food.
Virtual Travel with Umami: Shimane
Until we can all travel again, indulge in the deep history and food culture of Japan's beautiful Shimane prefecture virtually.
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Are you seeking a refreshing Japanese beverage to enjoy during the spring and summer? Japan has many great options, from traditional sake to sweet plum wine. These five alcoholic Japanese drinks offer a little bit of something for everyone.
Culture, Food Traditions, Seasonal, Spring
12 Months of Japanese Holidays: March’s Hinamatsuri & Shunbun
Although March is still cold throughout much of Japan and you may even see some snow, it marks the true beginning of spring. Two major holidays, Hinamatsuri and Higan, make it a festive time well worth celebrating—whatever the weather may be.
Japanese cuisine is well known for its use of fresh vegetables in season. In the month of March, both spring cabbage and broccoli are widely used in a number of Japanese dishes that are easy to make and pack a ton of flavor and health benefits.
Once one of the five annual holidays held in Japan's imperial court, Tango no Sekku happens annually on May 5, the fifth day of the fifth month. In modern times, it is known as Children’s Day, or Kodomo no hi.
Cooking Japanese food using vegetables that are in season results in fresh, vibrant, delicious dishes. In the month of May, you can use celery and young potatoes in a number of tasty Japanese dishes.
Try French Japanese fusion in Montreal and the best sushi outside of Japan in Vancouver with this World Travel Series Spring Edition.
In the month of April, both asparagus and lettuce are in season and fresh, ideal for cooking flavorful and healthy meals. Try these delicious and healthy Japanese dishes using fresh April vegetables.
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Quick & Easy Recipes
Learn how to make spinach with a Japanese twist with Umami Insider's easy video. View detailed recipe and print it here too!
Ebi mayo is a popular traditional Japanese appetizer that you may have tried at an authentic izakaya bar. Now you can make them right in the comfort of your home kitchen with our easy-to-follow recipe and video.
Replace cheese with tofu, and turn it into Japanese-style caprese.
Do you want to up your summer dip game? Try this miso dip to impress!
Many Japanese families have their own Nikujyaga recipes, which gets passed down from generation to generation. Discover your own take of the Nikujyaga recipe!
Recipe for those getting bored of avocado toasts.
Invite your friends over for some authentic Japanese isobe yaki, a sweet and savory snack that combines mochi with seaweed and soy sauce. Everyone will be delighted by your mastery of this authentic Japanese recipe and easy-to-follow video.
The sesame dressing adds to the tofu and asparagus salad! Make a lot of the dressing so you can stock it for multiple uses.
Soups are an important part of Japanese food culture, but they are often overlooked. Here is an easy recipe for a ginger and onion spiced tuna, mushroom and onion dashi soup that's perfect for almost any season.
Perfect recipe for healthy-eaters! Very healthy but filling and yummy.
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Naoshichi sudachi is one of the rarest citrus fruit unique to Kochi prefecture. It resembles a lime but packs umami flavor like no other. Find out how to use it to add refreshing citrus flavor to your everyday dish.
Tosa Dish is the regional food of Kochi Prefecture. From Katsuo No Tataki (seared skipjack tuna) to Sawachi Ryori (platter full of local delicacies), discover the unique flavor of Kochi.
Umami Insider interviewed Nobu from Yama Seafood, a master of seafood behind the delicious fish you eat at notable restaurants in tri-state and beyond. Find out what makes Yama Seafood one of the best in the seafood industry.
On the island of Honshu in Japan, a unique culinary tradition persists. Maple trees are stripped of their foliage, known as momiji, which is then preserved in salt and ultimately deep fried as a snack.
Dorayaki is a perfect snack for all ages. Red bean paste is delicious, but you can substitute the fillings with fresh cream, ice cream, or any cream you prefer!
With these meal kits, you can now easily make three popular Japanese dishes in no time. They are all vegetarian-friendly! Pick up your favorite produce items to make a Japanese meal at home.
